Referee Signals

Referees use hand signals to let off-ice officials know his or her decision at points during the game – for example, whether a goal has been scored or not, or what penalty has been called. The more common penalty signals are shown below.

Boarding

Pounding the closed fist of one hand into the other. Called for driving an opponent into the boards.

Charging

Rotating closed fists in front of chest. Called for taking more than three strides before checking an opponent.

Cross checking

A forward and backward motion extending from the chest. Called for hitting an opponent with both hands on the stick, and no part of the stick on the ice.

Elbowing

Tapping the elbow with the opposite hand. Called when using elbow to impede opponent.

High sticking

Holding both fists, clenched one above the other, at the side of the head. Called for carrying the stick above the waist against an opponent.

Holding

Clapping the wrists in front of the chest. Called for using hands on opponent or his equipment.

Hooking

Tugging motion with arms. Called for using the stick or blade to hook opponent.

Interference

Crossed arms in front of chest with fists closed. Called for having contact with opponent not in possession of the puck.

Roughing

A thrusting motion with the arm extending from the side. Called for engaging in fisticuffs or shoving.

Slashing

Chopping with one hand across the opposite forearm. Called for swinging stick at the opponent.

Spearing

A jabbing motion with both hands in front of the body. Called for using the stick like a spear.

Tripping

Striking the right leg with both hands in front of the body. Called for using stick, arm or leg to cause opponent to trip or fall.

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